Fall foliage isn’t just a New England phenomenon, it’s a seasonal change that happens around the world. Go leaf-peeping in these locations!
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Photo © Tourism New Brunswick
Hay rides, pumpkin patches, apple picking. It’s autumn, and you know what that means: It’s leaf-peeping season. That’s why we’ve rounded up this roster of lesser known foliage destinations to open your eyes to varied landscapes and unique cultural experiences. What better way to celebrate the season than with some inspiration?
Where and when to go leaf-peeping
Lapland, Finland
In the northernmost reaches of Finland, the ever-so-brief ruska — what locals call the changing of the leaves — arrives in a furious spurt of splendor. Riots of orange and reds sweep out across the moors, and reindeer make appearances between the low-lying Arctic shrubs. Added bonus: ruska coincides with the season of the Northern Lights, and the remote-but-accessible Lapland can be reached by a one-hour flight from Helsinki. Be sure to check out our safety tips for Finland before delving into the wilderness. Mid- to late-September.
Acadian Coast, New Brunswick, Canada
Ahh…leaf-peeping by the sea! Parts of the Acadian Coast, on the eastern shore of Canada’s New Brunswick province, are very New England-esque (maple trees, anyone?). But a drive along Chaleur Bay turns up a distinct maritime flavor. Sea grasses and coastal flora turn golden at the outset of September, opposite a mélange of broadleaf trees and the evergreens of the Appalachians. The breathtaking scenery culminates at Miscou Island, where you can see a carpet of peat bogs ablaze in shades of scarlet, and once you’ve finished your tour, you can find other ways to explore Canada’s “drive-by” province. Mid-September to mid-October.
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Nikko, Tochigi, Japan.
After you’ve done these 4 must-see things in Tokyo, head two hours north to the sacred mountains of Nikko. A harmonious blend of nature, architecture, and spirituality, the pilgrimage site is where Buddhism and Shintoism have been practiced since the 8th century. The shrines, gardens, and temples — scattered between plateaus, waterfalls, and forests — serve as a backdrop for some spectacular seasonal leaf-peeping (koyo or mimiji in Japanese). October to early November.
Sedona, Arizona
The southwestern state of Arizona is more famous for saguaros and deserts—which is why it’s surprising to see swathes of rusts and golds straddling Sedona’s Oak Creek starting October. The autumnal colors come from aspens, oak, sycamore, cottonwood and ash trees that flourish because of Sedona’s higher elevation, moderate temperatures, and abundant water source. A cool factor: You can be down by Oak Creek amongst the multi-colored leaves and for an arid contrast, look up to view the famous red-rock formations—an adventure that’s just as American as these off-the-beaten-track outdoor activities. Mid-October to November.
Vaud, Switzerland
Some people forget about the in-between seasons of Lake Geneva but believe us, autumn is prime time for the sights to see. When you arrive at the northern shores to the canton of Vaud — preferably by steam-powered paddleboat — you can instantly soak up the rust-speckled vistas of the UNESCO-designated Lavaux Vineyards. These terraces — a patchwork of ancient vines that crisscross the slopes — are a great place to celebrate the harvest. Meander or bicycle through the rows of leafage (don’t forget to purchase travel insurance for these activities) and afterwards toast to the taste of the terroir, here represented by a mineral-inflected, floral white.
For more ideas on where to go, visit worldnomads.com or contact us:
phil.sylvester@worldnomads.com
lisa.cheng@worldnomads.com
About World Nomads
World Nomads is a fast-growing online travel company that provides inspiration, advice, safety tips and specialized travel insurance for independent, volunteer and student travelers traveling and studying most anywhere in the world. Our online global travel insurance covers travelers from more than 135 countries and allows you to buy and claim online, 24/7, even while already traveling.
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